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Newry City AFC Special Olympic Club “We will make a difference”

Established in 2004, Newry City AFC Special Olympic Club’s dedicated volunteers offer year-round sports training, practices and opportunities for competition for children, young people and adults with intellectual disabilities.  Activities include Aquatics, Bowling, Floorball, Kayaking and Open Water Swimming, plus Stand-Up Paddle Boarding introduced more recently.  These are designed to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and share the gift of skills and friendship.  And the Club’s coaching activities lead to inclusive sports competition at the Special Olympic Games – providing athletes of all abilities with opportunities to compete and progress at local, regional, national and international levels.  Or simply participate on a recreational basis if they prefer.  The AFC sought financial assistance towards the purchase of three portable Heartstart Defibrillators to have readily available at each of their sports disciplines – water sports; football; and floor ball and bowling.  The Committee learned that the Club has just one defibrillator at present, permanently on board their mini bus.  And, recognising the importance of such vital equipment being readily available at all sites, endorsed a grant of £1,000 from The Clothworkers’ NI Fund.